Exploring local cuisine is one of the most rewarding aspects of traveling, especially when you’re staying in resort destinations.
Whether you’re lounging on a beach in Aruba or trekking through the jungles of Cambodia, sampling the local food can provide a deep dive into the culture and traditions of the area.
We’ll explore how to find the best local cuisine in popular resort destinations, covering a range of dining experiences from fine dining to street food.
We’ll also discuss the cost differences compared to the United States and what to look for to ensure you’re getting a true taste of the region.
Aruba
What to Look For:
Aruba’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin influences.
To find the best local cuisine, seek out dishes like Keshi Yena (a cheesy casserole stuffed with meat), Pan Bati (a type of cornbread), and fresh seafood, especially the catch of the day.
Local seafood is a highlight, with options such as red snapper, grouper, and mahi-mahi.
Fine Dining:
For a high-end experience, Papiamento Restaurant is a top choice.
Located in a charming 19th-century Aruban manor, the restaurant offers traditional Aruban dishes with a gourmet twist.
The setting itself is magical, with tables set around a lush garden and a pool.
The menu features dishes like shrimp cocktail with local papaya sauce and Caribbean lobster thermidor.
Street Food:
For a more casual bite, local food trucks, particularly around Oranjestad, are fantastic.
Look for Pastechi, which are savory pastries filled with cheese, meat, or fish, and fried fish, which is often fresh and delicious.
Try the Saco di Felipe, a local favorite that includes fried fish, plantains, and other goodies in a brown paper bag.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Aruba tends to be pricier than in the U.S., especially in resorts and upscale restaurants.
However, local eateries and street food provide affordable options without sacrificing quality.
For example, a meal at a resort might cost you around $50 per person, while street food can be as low as $5 to $10.
Bahamas
What to Look For:
In the Bahamas, fresh seafood is the star of the show.
Conch, in particular, is a local favorite and is served in a variety of ways including conch fritters, conch salad, and cracked conch.
You should also try Bahamian Rock Lobster and Johnnycake, a dense bread often served with stews.
Fine Dining:
Graycliff Restaurant in Nassau offers an upscale Bahamian dining experience.
This historical restaurant is not just about great food; it’s also about the ambiance.
With a wine cellar boasting over 250,000 bottles, your meal is sure to be memorable.
The menu includes dishes like Bahamian lobster tail, rack of lamb, and their famous Graycliff chocolate soufflé.
Street Food:
Arawak Cay, known locally as “The Fish Fry,” is a must-visit for authentic Bahamian street food.
Here, you can enjoy fried fish, conch salad, and Bahama Mama cocktails while soaking in the local culture.
The vibe is always lively, especially on weekends.
Other must-try street food includes Sky Juice (a coconut water-based drink) and Guava Duff, a traditional dessert.
Cost Comparison:
Food prices in the Bahamas can be high, particularly at resorts where meals can easily cost $70 or more per person.
Street food and local joints, however, offer more budget-friendly options, often between $10 and $20 for a hearty meal.
Bali
What to Look For:
Balinese cuisine is rich with spices and flavors, heavily influenced by Indonesian culinary traditions.
Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay (grilled skewers), and Babi Guling (suckling pig) are must-try dishes.
You should also try Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck) and Lawar (a mix of vegetables, coconut, and minced meat).
Fine Dining:
For a fine dining experience, Locavore in Ubud is highly recommended.
This restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and modern culinary techniques, providing a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
The multi-course tasting menu is a journey through Balinese flavors, featuring dishes like king prawn with kemangi pesto and Balinese pork belly.
Street Food:
Warungs, or local eateries, are where you’ll find the best street food. Martabak (stuffed pancake) and Bakso (meatball soup) are popular choices.
Be sure to visit the night markets for a true taste of Bali’s street food culture.
The best part?
You can eat like a king for under $5.
Other must-try street food includes Pisang Goreng (fried banana) and Babi Guling from local vendors.
Cost Comparison:
Bali is generally cheaper than the U.S. for dining.
Even fine dining here is often more affordable compared to American standards.
A meal at Locavore might cost around $50 per person, while street food can be enjoyed for as little as $2 to $5.
Barbados
What to Look For:
Bajan cuisine is a mix of African, Indian, and British influences, with Flying Fish and Cou-Cou being the national dish.
Other popular dishes include Macaroni Pie, Fish Cakes, and Pepperpot, a rich meat stew.
Fine Dining:
The Cliff Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with breathtaking ocean views and exquisite Bajan cuisine.
The setting is romantic and the food, featuring fresh local seafood and ingredients, is top-notch.
The menu includes dishes like herb-crusted lamb, Caribbean lobster, and a decadent chocolate fondant.
Be prepared to spend around $100 per person.
Street Food:
Oistins Fish Fry is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
This weekly event on Friday nights features a variety of grilled fish, rice, peas, and live music.
It’s a vibrant, community-focused event where you can enjoy delicious food and a lively atmosphere for about $10 to $15.
Other street food highlights include Bajan cutters (sandwiches) and Pudding and Souse (pickled pork with sweet potato pudding).
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Barbados can range from moderately expensive at resorts to reasonably priced at local eateries and street food vendors.
Resort dining can be upwards of $70 per person, while street food and local restaurants offer meals for around $10 to $30.
Cambodia
What to Look For:
Cambodian cuisine, also known as Khmer cuisine, is less known but equally delightful.
Look for dishes like Amok (a fragrant coconut milk curry), Lap Khmer (spicy beef salad), and Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice).
Another must-try is Prahok Ktis, a rich and flavorful dip made from fermented fish.
Fine Dining:
Embassy Restaurant in Siem Reap offers a high-end Khmer culinary journey.
The restaurant is run by two female chefs known as the “Kimsan Twins,” who craft beautiful, multi-course meals that highlight local ingredients and traditional techniques.
The tasting menu often includes dishes like fish Amok, grilled river prawns, and sticky rice with mango.
Expect to pay around $60 per person.
Street Food:
Head to the night markets in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap for street food delights such as Num Pang (Cambodian sandwich), grilled skewers, and Kuy Teav (noodle soup).
The street food is incredibly affordable, with most items costing less than $2.
Be sure to try Bai Sach Chrouk from local street vendors for an authentic experience.
Cost Comparison:
Cambodia is significantly cheaper than the U.S. for dining.
Even high-end dining is very affordable by Western standards, and street food offers incredible value.
A full meal at a local restaurant might cost $3 to $5.
Dominican Republic
What to Look For:
Dominican cuisine is hearty and flavorful, featuring dishes like Mangu (mashed plantains), Sancocho (a rich meat stew), and Mofongo (mashed plantains with garlic and pork cracklings).
Other popular dishes include Chicharrón (fried pork) and Tostones (fried green plantains).
Fine Dining:
For a luxurious dining experience, visit La Yola in Punta Cana.
This restaurant offers fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors in a stunning waterfront setting.
The menu includes dishes like lobster ceviche, grilled octopus, and coconut flan.
A meal here will typically cost around $80 per person.
Street Food:
Don’t miss the Chimichurri trucks for a local burger experience, and vendors selling Tostones (fried plantains) and Empanadas.
These street eats are delicious and very affordable, often costing just a few dollars.
Other street food highlights include Yaroa (a layered dish of fries, cheese, and meat) and Pica Pollo (fried chicken).
Cost Comparison:
Dining in the Dominican Republic is generally less expensive than in the U.S., especially when enjoying street food and local restaurants.
Resort meals can be around $60 per person, while local street food is typically under $10.
Fiji
What to Look For:
Fijian cuisine features fresh seafood, root vegetables, and tropical fruits. Kokoda (Fijian ceviche) is a must-try dish.
You should also try Lovo, a traditional Fijian feast cooked in an earth oven, which includes meats, fish, and root vegetables.
Fine Dining:
For a refined dining experience, visit Ports O’ Call at the Sheraton Fiji Resort.
The restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with classic dishes and Fijian specialties.
The menu includes dishes like grilled lobster, filet mignon, and passion fruit soufflé. Expect to spend around $100 per person.
Street Food:
Explore local markets for street food options like Roti and fresh tropical fruits.
Suva Municipal Market is a great place to start.
Other street food highlights include Cassava Chips and Fish and Chips made with fresh, locally caught fish.
Street food is very affordable, often costing less than $5 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Fiji can be more expensive than in the U.S., especially at resort restaurants.
However, local markets and street food offer more affordable options, with meals ranging from $5 to $20.
India
What to Look For:
Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each region offering unique dishes.
Look for Tandoori, Biryani, and a variety of vegetarian options.
You should also try regional specialties like Dosas (South Indian crepes) and Rogan Josh (a Kashmiri lamb dish).
Fine Dining:
Indulge in a royal dining experience at Bukhara in New Delhi, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine and legendary Dal Bukhara.
The setting is upscale and the food is exceptional.
The menu includes dishes like Tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, and naan bread.
A meal here will cost around $60 per person.
Street Food:
Street food is integral to Indian cuisine.
Try Pani Puri (crispy puris filled with spicy water), Chaat (a mix of crispy snacks, potatoes, and chutneys), and Vada Pav (spicy potato fritter in a bun) from local vendors.
Other must-try street foods include Dhokla (a steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpeas) and Jalebi (a sweet, spiral-shaped dessert).
Street food is extremely affordable, usually costing less than $1 per item.
Cost Comparison:
India offers a wide range of dining options at all price points.
Street food is exceptionally cheap compared to the U.S., while fine dining is also affordable.
A meal at a high-end restaurant might cost $20 to $50, while street food can be enjoyed for just a few dollars.
Indonesia
What to Look For:
Indonesian cuisine is vibrant and flavorful. Look for dishes like Rendang (spicy beef), Gado-Gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and Nasi Campur (mixed rice).
You should also try Soto Ayam (chicken soup) and Nasi Padang (a variety of dishes served with rice).
Fine Dining:
KAUM in Jakarta offers an upscale experience with traditional Indonesian flavors.
The restaurant’s decor and menu are inspired by Indonesia’s diverse culinary heritage.
The menu includes dishes like beef Rendang, grilled fish, and coconut rice.
A meal here costs around $50 per person.
Street Food:
Warungs and night markets are where you’ll find the best street food.
Try Sate Ayam (chicken satay) and Nasi Goreng (fried rice) for a taste of local flavors.
Other street food highlights include Martabak Manis (sweet stuffed pancake) and Es Cendol (a refreshing drink made with coconut milk and palm sugar).
Street food is very affordable, with dishes typically costing less than $2.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Indonesia is generally cheaper than in the U.S.
Street food provides excellent value and an authentic culinary experience.
Even upscale dining is relatively affordable, with meals at top restaurants costing around $30 to $50.
Jamaica
What to Look For:
Jamaican cuisine is bold and flavorful, with jerk chicken being a staple.
Look for dishes like Ackee and Saltfish, Curried Goat, and Oxtail Stew.
You should also try Festival (a type of fried dumpling) and Callaloo (a leafy green vegetable dish).
Fine Dining:
The Sugar Mill Restaurant offers fine dining with a focus on traditional Jamaican flavors.
Set in a former sugar mill, the ambiance is unique and the food is exceptional.
The menu includes dishes like jerk pork, grilled lobster, and bread pudding.
A meal here costs around $80 per person.
Street Food:
Boston Bay in Port Antonio is famous for its jerk pits, serving up some of the best jerk chicken and pork.
These vendors cook the meat over pimento wood, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor.
Other must-try street foods include Patty (a flaky pastry filled with meat or vegetables) and Bammy (cassava flatbread).
Expect to pay around $10 to $15 for a hearty meal.
Cost Comparison:
Jamaica offers a range of dining experiences from high-end to street food, generally more affordable than in the U.S.
Fine dining can be around $50 to $100 per person, while street food offers substantial meals for under $10.
Laos
What to Look For:
Lao cuisine is fresh and aromatic, with dishes like Laap (minced meat salad), Khao Piak Sen (rice noodle soup), and Tam Mak Hoong (spicy green papaya salad).
You should also try Or Lam (a spicy stew) and Ping Kai (grilled chicken).
Fine Dining:
Visit Tamarind in Luang Prabang for a high-end take on traditional Lao cuisine.
The restaurant offers cooking classes and multi-course meals that highlight local ingredients and techniques.
The menu includes dishes like fish steamed in banana leaves, sticky rice, and riverweed crisps.
Expect to pay around $30 per person.
Street Food:
Night markets in Luang Prabang are perfect for trying local street food like grilled meats, sticky rice, and fresh spring rolls.
Other street food highlights include Sai Oua (Lao sausage) and Khao Jee (Lao-style baguette).
Street food is incredibly affordable, often costing less than $2 per dish.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Laos is very affordable compared to the U.S., with street food being exceptionally cheap and delicious.
Even fine dining is reasonably priced, with meals costing around $10 to $20.
Malaysia
What to Look For:
Malaysian cuisine is a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.
Look for Nasi Lemak, Char Kway Teow, and Satay.
You should also try Roti Canai (a type of flatbread) and Laksa (a spicy noodle soup).
Fine Dining:
Indulge in fine dining at Cilantro in Kuala Lumpur, known for its fusion of French and Japanese cuisine with local ingredients.
The restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with meals costing around $70 per person.
The menu includes dishes like foie gras, wagyu beef, and black truffle risotto.
Street Food:
Hawker centers are the best places for street food.
Try dishes like Roti Canai, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and Laksa.
Other must-try street foods include Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles) and Cendol (a dessert made with coconut milk and palm sugar).
Street food is very affordable, with dishes typically costing between $1 and $5.
Cost Comparison:
Malaysia offers a wide range of dining options, often cheaper than in the U.S.
Hawker centers provide incredible value for money, while fine dining remains reasonably priced compared to Western standards.
Maldives
What to Look For:
Maldivian cuisine revolves around fish and coconut.
Try Mas Huni (tuna salad), Garudhiya (fish soup), and Fihunu Mas (grilled fish).
You should also try Bis Keemiya (a type of pastry) and Maldivian Lobster.
Fine Dining:
Ithaa Undersea Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with Maldivian and international dishes served in an underwater setting.
The menu includes dishes like Maldivian lobster carpaccio, reef fish tartare, and white chocolate mousse.
This once-in-a-lifetime dining experience costs around $300 per person.
Street Food:
In Male, the capital, try street food like Fihunu Mas (grilled fish) and Bis Keemiya (samosa).
Other street food highlights include Gulha (fish balls) and Kulhi Boakibaa (fish cake).
Street food is very affordable, often costing less than $5 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in the Maldives can be expensive, especially in resorts where meals can cost upwards of $100 per person.
Local eateries in Male are more affordable and offer authentic experiences for around $10 to $20 per meal.
Madagascar
What to Look For:
Malagasy cuisine is influenced by African, Asian, and European flavors.
Look for Romazava (meat stew), Ravitoto (pork with cassava leaves), and Mofo Gasy (Malagasy pancakes).
You should also try Akoho Sy Voanio (chicken with coconut milk) and Lasary (a type of pickled vegetable salad).
Fine Dining:
La Varangue in Antananarivo offers fine dining with a mix of Malagasy and French cuisine.
The restaurant is known for its elegant setting and exquisite dishes, costing around $50 per person. The menu includes dishes like zebu steak, foie gras, and chocolate fondant.
Street Food:
Street vendors in markets offer affordable options like Mofo Anana (vegetable fritters), Koba (rice cake), and Sambos (fried pastries).
Other street food highlights include Ranonapango (a traditional Malagasy drink made from rice) and Mofo Gasy (a type of pancake).
Street food is very cheap, typically costing less than $2.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Madagascar is generally cheaper than in the U.S., with street food offering exceptional value.
Fine dining is also affordable, with meals costing around $20 to $40.
Mexico
What to Look For:
Mexican cuisine is diverse and vibrant.
Look for Tacos, Mole, and Chiles en Nogada.
You should also try Tamales (steamed corn dough) and Pozole (a traditional soup).
Fine Dining:
Pujol in Mexico City offers an elevated take on traditional Mexican dishes.
The tasting menu is a journey through the flavors of Mexico, costing around $100 per person.
The menu includes dishes like mole madre, smoked baby corn, and a unique take on street food classics.
Street Food:
Street food is a must in Mexico.
Try Tacos al Pastor, Elote (corn on the cob), and Tamales from local vendors.
Other must-try street foods include Quesadillas, Tlayudas (large tortillas topped with various ingredients), and Churros (fried dough pastries).
Street food is very affordable, with most items costing less than $2.
Cost Comparison:
Mexico offers a wide range of dining options, with street food being particularly cheap and delicious compared to the U.S.
Fine dining is also more affordable, with high-end meals costing around $50 to $80.
Philippines
What to Look For:
Filipino cuisine is a rich blend of Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American influences.
Look for dishes like Adobo (marinated meat stew), Lechon (roast pig), and Sinigang (sour soup).
You should also try Halo-Halo (a popular dessert) and Kare-Kare (a peanut-based stew).
Fine Dining:
Antonio’s in Tagaytay offers fine dining with a focus on Filipino flavors and ingredients.
The restaurant’s garden setting is beautiful, and meals cost around $50 per person.
The menu includes dishes like lamb shank caldereta, roast duck, and chocolate soufflé.
Street Food:
Street food is abundant in the Philippines.
Try Balut (fertilized duck egg), Isaw (grilled chicken intestines), and Halo-Halo (shaved ice dessert).
Other must-try street foods include Fish Balls, Banana Cue (caramelized bananas), and Kwek-Kwek (quail eggs coated in batter and fried).
Street food is very affordable, often costing less than $1 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in the Philippines is very affordable compared to the U.S.
Street food is particularly cheap, with high-end meals also reasonably priced at around $20 to $40.
Puerto Rico
What to Look For:
Puerto Rican cuisine is a mix of Taino, Spanish, and African influences.
Look for Mofongo (mashed plantains), Lechón Asado (roast pork), and Arroz con Gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
You should also try Asopao (a hearty stew) and Tembleque (a coconut dessert).
Fine Dining:
1919 Restaurant in San Juan offers fine dining with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.
The oceanfront setting is stunning, and meals cost around $100 per person.
The menu includes dishes like roasted red snapper, beef short ribs, and passion fruit sorbet.
Street Food:
Kiosks in Luquillo Beach are famous for their street food offerings.
Try Alcapurrias (fried dough filled with meat), Bacalaitos (codfish fritters), and Pinchos (grilled meat skewers).
Other street food highlights include Tostones (fried plantains) and Empanadillas (stuffed pastries).
Street food is very affordable, typically costing less than $5 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Puerto Rico offers a range of dining experiences, with street food and local restaurants being more affordable compared to fine dining.
Meals at upscale restaurants can cost around $50 to $100, while street food is very budget-friendly.
South Africa
What to Look For:
South African cuisine is diverse, with influences from indigenous cultures, Dutch settlers, Indian laborers, and British colonists.
Look for dishes like Bobotie (spiced meat pie), Bunny Chow (curry in a bread loaf), and Braai (barbecue).
You should also try Biltong (dried cured meat) and Melktert (milk tart).
Fine Dining:
The Test Kitchen in Cape Town offers an innovative fine dining experience that showcases South African flavors with a modern twist.
The tasting menu includes dishes like springbok carpaccio, slow-cooked pork belly, and a variety of desserts.
Expect to pay around $100 per person.
Street Food:
Markets like Neighbourgoods Market in Johannesburg and The Old Biscuit Mill in Cape Town are great for street food.
Try Biltong (dried cured meat), Vetkoek (fried dough filled with meat), and Gatsby (a large sandwich).
Other street food highlights include Boerewors (a type of sausage) and Koeksisters (a sweet, fried dough treat).
Street food is very affordable, usually costing between $2 and $5 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in South Africa is generally more affordable than in the U.S., with fine dining offering excellent value for the quality.
Meals at high-end restaurants might cost around $50 to $100, while street food and local eateries provide substantial meals for under $10.
Taiwan
What to Look For:
Taiwanese cuisine is known for its street food and night markets.
Look for dishes like Beef Noodle Soup, Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and Bubble Tea.
You should also try Gua Bao (a type of sandwich) and Oyster Omelet.
Fine Dining:
Ming Fu in Taipei offers fine dining with a focus on traditional Taiwanese flavors.
The restaurant is known for its elegant setting and excellent service, with meals costing around $60 per person.
The menu includes dishes like braised pork rice, shrimp rolls, and a variety of seafood.
Street Food:
Night markets like Shilin Night Market and Raohe Street Night Market are must-visits.
Try Stinky Tofu, Oyster Omelet, and Pineapple Cake.
Other street food highlights include Fried Chicken Cutlets, Braised Pork Rice, and Shaved Ice Desserts.
Street food is very affordable, typically costing less than $2 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Taiwan is very affordable compared to the U.S., with street food being particularly cheap and delicious.
Fine dining is also reasonably priced, with high-end meals costing around $30 to $60.
Thailand
What to Look For:
Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.
Look for dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and Green Curry.
You should also try Som Tum (papaya salad) and Mango Sticky Rice.
Fine Dining:
Gaggan in Bangkok offers a fine dining experience that blends traditional Thai flavors with modern techniques.
The tasting menu is innovative and memorable, costing around $150 per person.
The menu includes dishes like lobster curry, truffle soup, and a variety of desserts.
Street Food:
Street food is integral to Thai culture. Visit places like Chatuchak Market and Yaowarat (Chinatown) for dishes like Som Tum (papaya salad), Mango Sticky Rice, and Satay.
Other street food highlights include Pad See Ew (stir-fried noodles) and Thai Iced Tea.
Street food is incredibly affordable, often costing less than $1 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Thailand offers a range of dining options, with street food being exceptionally cheap compared to the U.S.
Fine dining is also affordable, with high-end meals costing around $50 to $150.
Vietnam
What to Look For:
Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and flavorful, with an emphasis on herbs and vegetables.
Look for dishes like Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (sandwich), and Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles).
You should also try Goi Cuon (spring rolls) and Ca Kho To (caramelized fish in a clay pot).
Fine Dining:
La Verticale in Hanoi offers fine dining with a focus on French-Vietnamese fusion.
The restaurant is known for its elegant setting and innovative dishes, costing around $60 per person.
The menu includes dishes like duck breast with orange sauce, seafood spring rolls, and a variety of desserts.
Street Food:
Street food is abundant in Vietnam.
Visit places like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi for dishes like Goi Cuon (spring rolls), Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), and Che (sweet dessert soup).
Other street food highlights include Banh Xeo (savory pancakes) and Com Tam (broken rice).
Street food is very affordable, typically costing less than $2 per item.
Cost Comparison:
Dining in Vietnam is very affordable compared to the U.S., with street food being particularly cheap and delicious.
Fine dining is also reasonably priced, with high-end meals costing around $20 to $60.
Embark on a Culinary Adventure: Savoring the World’s Flavors
Finding the best local cuisine in resort destinations requires a bit of exploration and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
Whether you’re indulging in fine dining or sampling street food, each experience offers a unique taste of the local culture.
From the fresh seafood of Aruba to the vibrant street food of Thailand, there’s a world of culinary delights waiting to be discovered.
So next time you’re in a resort destination, venture out and savor the local flavors – your taste buds will thank you!